Kirjahaku

From the pre-war Viennese Werkbund Estate (designed by the likes of Gerrit Rietveld and Adolf Loos), the post-war Swiss Siedlung Halen (by Atelier 5) to more recent builds such as the Medina Complex in Eindhoven (Neave Brown), Modernist Estates: Europe showcases 15 housing schemes through archival and contemporary photography, alongside a series of interviews with current residents. This beautifully designed book takes an inside look at how these estates are inhabited today and examines the differences and similarities between estates across Europe.

The story of the building of an iconic mid-century housing estate, that is often seen as the model for housing architecture. Fully illustrated with commissioned photography of the interiors and exteriors, archive images and newly commissioned writing by leading architectural historians, plus interviews with people on the estate to capture their story. Following World War II, the population in the City of London plummeted, and with a duty to provide housing for those working in the area – such as nurses, policemen and doctors – the City Corporation commissioned architect Geoffry Powell in 1952 to design the Golden Lane Estate. Powell invited Christoph Bon and Jo Chamberlin to join him in developing a detailed design for the Estate. They would later become Chamberlin, Powell & Bon, working on world-renowned projects such as the Barbican Estate and the University of Leeds. Golden Lane Estate, now Grade II and Grade II* listed is often cited as being a model estate. With its high level of detailing, use of materials, colour, its humane scale, thoughtfulness of space, light, communal spaces, leisure facilities and integrated shops, it is exemplary, particularly for social housing. It was deemed as a success from the off and remains popular today, with many original tenants and/or their families still choosing to live there. What sets the estate apart is the sense of community and neighbourliness which is promoted by the architecture and design.

Modernist fans will want to dive right into the pages of this guide to remarkable buildings designed by famous architects from Alvar Aalto to Charlie Zehnder. Featuring over 130 unique structures that span the globe, this book covers the full spectrum of modernist principles from Bauhaus to Brutalism. Author and designer Stefi Orazi choses buildings that are open to the public, with some even available for overnight stays. Full-colour photography of the exterior and interiors highlight incredible details such as the bright red drum fireplace in Giancarlo de Carlo’s Ca’ Romanino, Urbino, Italy, or the constructivist-like staircase in Renaat Braem’s house and studio in Antwerp, Belgium. Each building is accompanied by informative text offering visitor information and insights into its history. Whether you're looking for a unique holiday experience or a global overview of Modernist architecture, Modernist Escapes stylishly documents these unforgettable spaces.